(a) State five ways in which highlands promote economic development in the North Central Highlands (b) What five characteristics of highlands hinder the dev...

Answer Details

(a) Ways highlands promote economic development in the North Central Highlands (Jos Plateau region)

1. Mining: the highlands contain tin, columbite and other solid minerals whose extraction earns revenue and provides employment.
2. Cool, healthy climate: the higher altitude gives lower temperatures that attract settlement, tourism and resorts (e.g. Jos).
3. Temperate crop farming: the cool climate favours market gardening of vegetables, potatoes and fruits (Irish potatoes, cabbage).
4. Hydro-electric power and water supply: highland rivers provide sites for dams, water reservoirs and power generation.
5. Tourism and grazing: scenic landscapes attract tourists, while highland grasslands support livestock rearing.

(b) Characteristics of highlands that hinder development

1. Steep slopes and rugged relief make construction of roads, railways and buildings difficult and costly.
2. Thin, poor and easily eroded soils on the slopes limit large-scale crop farming.
3. Difficult accessibility isolates settlements and raises transport costs.
4. Rapids and waterfalls on highland rivers interrupt navigation.
5. Cold and misty weather at times, and the danger of soil erosion and landslides, discourage some activities.